Ever worked with a developer who insists on having every detail spelled out before they start?
From font sizes to combo box widths, they often seek a security blanket of perfect clarity. But this kind of over-specification usually does more harm than good.
Spoon-feed developers don’t have the space to think critically or creatively. Instead, they are following a checklist; limiting ownership and stifling innovation.
How can we move beyond the security blanket? Hereโs a few thoughts:
Developers often fear mistakes. Theyโre worried theyโll be blamed when something goes wrong. The first step is to acknowledge this fear and reassure them that itโs okay. Let them know the process is about learning and improving, not about getting everything right on the first try.
Over-specification often comes from a lack of trust. We need to change that. Encourage collaboration, ask for regular feedback and create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing. Developers who feel empowered to make decisions often come up with better solutions.
Maintain focus on the core problem. If developers understand why something needs to be done, they can figure out how to do it in a way that makes sense for the situation. Instead of getting into the weeds of every technical detail, explain the outcome you want and the problem youโre trying to solve.
Encourage developers to deliver early and get feedback. Developers who know they can show their work before itโs finished are more likely to take initiative. Instead of holding their hand through every step, treat the process like a collaboration. Use feedback to improve the work, rather than dictate it.
Helping developers move beyond the need for every detail isnโt just about giving them freedom, itโs about building trust and fostering a sense of ownership. The less we specify, the more they can rely on expertise to solve problems in the best way possible.